Ground cover in landscaping refers to any material placed over the soil’s surface to serve a foundational role in the garden’s design and maintenance. This material functions to protect and manage the underlying soil structure while creating a unified aesthetic across the landscape. Ground cover forms a living or non-living layer that replaces bare earth or traditional turfgrass in areas where turf is not suited.
What Defines Ground Cover in Landscaping
Ground cover is technically defined by its growth habit and intended purpose, which is to completely blanket the soil. Living ground covers are characterized by their low height, typically remaining under 18 inches, and a dense, horizontal growth pattern. These plants are generally creeping, sprawling, or prostrate species that spread out rather than growing tall.
The primary intention is mass coverage, forming a continuous mat of foliage or material over a given area. This dense habit differentiates ground covers from standard bedding plants or tall shrubs, which focus on vertical growth. They are often employed in challenging spots, such as steep slopes or deeply shaded areas where mowing is impractical.
Essential Roles of Ground Cover
Ground cover performs several functional roles that directly benefit soil health and garden maintenance. One of its most significant functions is weed suppression, achieved by forming a thick, light-blocking mat over the soil. This physical barrier limits the sunlight needed for weed seeds to germinate and compete with desirable plants for resources.
Another important function is erosion control, particularly on sloped terrain. The dense root systems of living ground covers act like a natural net, anchoring the soil and preventing valuable topsoil from washing away during heavy rainfall. Non-living materials also impede the speed of surface water runoff, allowing more time for water to infiltrate the soil.
Ground cover acts as a living or non-living mulch, significantly contributing to moisture retention. By shading the soil surface, the material reduces the rate of water evaporation, helping to conserve moisture and lessen the need for frequent irrigation. This layer also helps to moderate soil temperature, keeping the ground cooler during hot summer months and warmer in winter.
Categorizing Ground Cover Materials
Ground cover materials are separated into two categories: living and non-living options. Living ground covers consist of low-growing plants that create a self-sustaining layer of foliage. Examples include creeping thyme, sedum, ivy, and low-growing junipers, which offer aesthetic appeal and enrich the soil with organic matter as they decompose.
Non-living, or inorganic, ground covers are materials that do not decompose quickly and are often chosen for their longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. This category includes materials like shredded bark mulch, wood chips, gravel, crushed stone, and recycled rubber.
Choosing Ground Cover Based on Site Conditions
Selecting the appropriate ground cover requires matching the material’s properties to the specific conditions of the planting site. Sunlight requirements are a primary consideration, as some plants thrive in full sun, while others are better suited for partial or deep shade. For instance, a sunny, dry area might benefit from drought-tolerant sedums, while a shaded area could use ivy or pachysandra.
Soil type and drainage needs also dictate the best choice; areas with poor, well-drained soil may require a rugged, drought-resistant plant, while moister spots can support less tolerant species. For landscapes with a significant slope or high erosion risk, options with dense, deep root systems, like Gro-low Sumac, are preferred for their soil-stabilizing capabilities. In areas with foot traffic, a durable option like creeping thyme or a hard material like flagstone must be chosen to withstand wear.